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Washington lobbying guidelines
| Lobbyist registration guidelines |
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| Related pages |
| Lobbying |
| Taxpayer-funded lobbying |
| Guidelines by state |
Lobbying is broadly defined as the attempt to persuade another person to accept one's position. This includes efforts to influence lawmakers by other legislators, constituents, or organized groups. Each state has different requirements for lobbyist registration. The person doing the lobbying is typically referred to as the lobbyist and the person or entity providing compensation the principal. Each state has a different entity responsible for maintaining its lobbying records, such as registrations and expenditures.
As of April 2021, the Washington State Public Disclosure Commission maintained the state's lobbying records.
Who must register?
According to Sections 42.17A.600(1) and 42.17A.005(35) of Washington state law, individuals who meet the following criteria must register as a lobbyist:[1]
| “ | 42.17A.600(1): Before lobbying, or within thirty days after being employed as a lobbyist, whichever occurs first, unless exempt under RCW 42.17A.610, a lobbyist shall register by filing with the commission a lobbyist registration statement.[2] | ” |
| “ | 42.17A.005(35): 'Lobbyist' includes any person who lobbies either on the person's own or another's behalf.[2] | ” |
Click here to visit the state's searchable database of registrations and filings.
State definition of lobbying
Section 42.17A.005(34) of Washington state law defines lobbying as:[1]
| “ | 'Lobby' and 'lobbying' each mean attempting to influence the passage or defeat of any legislation by the legislature of the state of Washington, or the adoption or rejection of any rule, standard, rate, or other legislative enactment of any state agency under the state administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW.[2] | ” |
See also
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